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New York Hummingbird - Dean Owens Album Review

Posted: 14th March 2012
Review Info
Rating:
3 out of 5
Artist:
Release Date:
25th Mar 2012
Label:
Songboy Records
Reviewer:
Jenness Mitchell

Album Review

Edinburgh-based singer-songwriter Dean Owens returns with his fourth album, New York Hummingbird. Produced across the pond in the Big Apple and New Jersey this release has a flavour of the States with dollops of Scotch attitude. Formerly of Americana outfit The Felsons, Owens debut solo effort (The Droma Tapes) embraced the stark beauty of the Highlands and he has since fluttered with folk sounds (My Town) and indulged in Nashville dreams (Whisky Hearts).

Continuing to grow as an artist, New York Hummingbird is Owens most polished and ambitious record to date a labour of love slowly created by flying back and forth over the Atlantic. The production work courtesy of Ray Ketchem and Dave Derby has brought about a melancholy listen laced with catchy melodies. There are themes of growing up (Baby Fireworks), breaking up (New York Hummingbird) and moving on (Lost Time). My favourite tracks are Springtime, Snowglobe and Solo (Valentine NYC). With Springtime, featuring Mascotts Kendall Meade, the stripped-back twin vocals are mesmerizing and you can almost smell the April rain. Snowglobe on the other hand is a sparkling wintery song with twinkling instrumental, whilst Solo(Valentine NYC) hides a lonesome existence with an upbeat hook. Those that dig a bit of Josh Rouse and Ryan Adams will appreciate the workings of Dean Owens.

Jenness Mitchell